Everyday choices, like what you drink to stay awake, may affect your mental health more than you realize. Suicide is a major public health issue across the world, and many families are touched by its impact. While we often talk about therapy, medication, or social support, researchers are now finding that common beverages such as coffee and energy drinks can also play a role in suicide risk.
A recent study published in Nutrients looked at the relationship between these drinks and suicidal thoughts or attempts, analyzing data from more than 1.5 million people across several countries (Low, Chew, Loke, Tan, & Ho, 2025). The results are striking, and they provide simple, everyday steps that may help protect you and your loved ones.
What the study found
- Coffee may protect mental health.
People who drank about two cups of coffee per day (roughly 60–90 cups per month) had a lower risk of suicide attempts than people who drank little or no coffee. In fact, their risk was reduced by nearly half. - Energy drinks may raise suicide risk.
Even small amounts of energy drinks were linked to higher risks of both suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts. Just one drink per month was tied to a 79% higher risk of attempting suicide compared to not drinking any. With heavier use—around one per day—the risk more than doubled.
Why the difference?
The researchers believe the difference may be due to what’s inside these drinks:
- Coffee contains caffeine and other natural compounds that may improve mood and alertness. These substances affect brain chemicals, such as dopamine, that play a role in regulating emotions.
- Energy drinks often contain very high doses of caffeine, added stimulants, and large amounts of sugar. This mix can increase anxiety, agitation, and sleep problems, which are known risk factors for suicidal behavior.
What this means for everyday life
It’s important to note that this research does not prove coffee prevents suicide or that energy drinks directly cause it. Other factors, like mental health conditions, stress, or lifestyle habits, also matter. Still, the findings offer practical tips:
- Moderate coffee consumption (about two cups daily) may be safe for most adults and could provide some protection for mental health.
- Limiting or avoiding energy drinks may be wise, especially for people already experiencing stress, anxiety, or mood changes.
- Healthy routines such as regular sleep, physical activity, balanced eating, and social support remain the strongest protective factors against suicide.
- Seeking help matters. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reaching out for professional support is critical. In the United States, you can dial or text 988 for the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
The Big Picture
This study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the beverages we reach for each morning or during a late-night study/work session may do more than boost our energy; they can shape our mental health. While moderate coffee intake may be linked to lower suicide risk, energy drinks appear to raise it, even at low levels. Making mindful choices, while also building strong support systems, can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Reference
Low, C. E., Chew, N. S. M., Loke, S., Tan, J. Y., & Ho, C. S. H. (2025). Association of coffee and energy drink intake with suicide attempts and suicide ideation: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 17(11), 1911.
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